Luke Bryan celebrates new album and next season of 'American Idol'

Joelle Garguilo sits down with Luke Bryan ahead of the CMA Awards.

The Details

Luke Bryan is celebrating a new album and preparing for a new season of "American Idol," this time with production returning to his home state of Georgia.

The country music star spoke backstage at Nashville's historic Grand Ole Opry about his new album, "Signs," and the inspiration behind its title track. Bryan described the song as blending a modern sound with traditional country themes.

"It's kinda got a poppy vibe to it, but it still got the country, thought process of breaking up, you know, heartbreak and loving and leaving and all that," Bryan said.

When asked how he knew the album was ready for release, Bryan said, "My formula is put songs out that make you wanna come out to live shows and have a good time."

Bryan also discussed his belief in signs and spirituality.

"I believe in signs. I kinda get a little spiritual from time to time. If I see something like the clock says 3:33," he said.

The interview took place during a special night at the Grand Ole Opry, where Bryan helped induct his friend, Rhett Akins, as an official Opry member. Akins co-wrote several of Bryan's hit songs, including "I Don't Want This Night to End" and "Hunting, Fishing and Loving Every Day."

Bryan, who is from Georgia, also looked ahead to the upcoming season of "American Idol" on ABC. For the first time, the show is being produced near Atlanta rather than in Hollywood.

"To be back in going to Georgia, I mean, I think we start auditions in Savannah. And then, to be in Atlanta, you know...I got Atlanta. I got it figured out," Bryan said.

The conversation concluded with a lighthearted game inspired by the album title. Asked for a sign that an "American Idol" contestant is about to impress him before they sing, Bryan replied, "Just if they got little quirky things. If they just look interesting."

When asked for a sign that fellow judges Carrie Underwood and Lionel Richie are about to disagree with him, Bryan said, "Lionel huffs and puffs, and Carrie is next to me, and I could just feel the energy just reverberate enough."

And when asked for a sign that his children are embarrassed by him, Bryan's answer was brief: "The sun came up."

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